Seeing God’s Hand at Work in My Life - part 1
 Fr Alvan Ibeh
St Peter’s Church, Gorleston
During one of my New Year homilies, I posed a question to the congregation: “How is the New Year treating you so far?” As anticipated, I received a range of responses, but one in particular stood out. A woman replied, “Father, it depends on how one sees it”. That response struck a chord with me. On that note, I say a heartfelt Happy New Year and welcome aboard Flight 2025! We give thanks to God for granting us the grace to embark on this new journey
Sadly, not everyone who set out with us last year completed the journey, but through God’s mercy, we have arrived. As it says in Zechariah 4:6, “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,” says the Lord Almighty”
As we embark on this year’s flight, we cannot predict how it will unfold. Some of us may not make it to the year’s end. For some, this journey may be turbulent; for others, it may turn out to be one of the most remarkable years of their lives. Regardless of what 2025 holds, we can place our trust in God, our Chief Pilot. He is in control. All we need to do is fasten our seatbelts with the Word of God and rest in His arms as He guides us to our destination
As St Paul reminds us, “I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day” (2 Timothy 1:12). Likewise, Proverbs 3:5-6 urges us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight”. This is the assurance that will carry us throughout the year. I pray that you enjoy this flight
Reflecting on the woman’s response that inspired this message, I want to ask you: “How do you interpret the events in your life, especially the challenging ones? Do you perceive God’s hand moving in every experience, even those you wish had never happened? Do you truly believe St Paul’s words in Romans 8:28: ‘And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose?’”
Do you understand that when you are at your lowest, God is still at work, orchestrating everything for your ultimate good, in line with His divine purpose? Recognising God’s hand in our lives often means discerning His presence, guidance, and blessings in our everyday experiences. How we perceive these moments largely depends on our perspective
We see God’s hand at work when our prayers are answered, sometimes in unexpected ways. Perhaps you’ve experienced praying for something specific, only to find God provides something entirely different but ultimately better. For instance, you may have sought a promotion but instead lost your job—only to later receive an opportunity far greater than you imagined. In hindsight, all you can say is, “This could only be God’s hand working for my good”
God’s hand is also evident in unexpected blessings: a timely act of kindness, an unforeseen opportunity, or a word of encouragement just when it’s most needed. These moments echo the words of Psalm 118:23: “The Lord has done this, and it is marvellous in our eyes”
God’s hand represents His guidance, teaching, and discipline. Our ability to recognise and follow His lead grows as we become more attuned to His presence. This awareness is cultivated through studying His Word, maintaining a consistent prayer life, and nurturing a steadfast faith
By God’s grace, I will conclude this reflection in the next edition. Until then, stay connected with my messages of hope on social media: Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram (@voiceofhopefamily). To get a copy of my book, “A Fountain of Hope” visit this link, also available on Amazon
first published in Catholic Diocese of East Anglia newspaper
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